I disagree with the mob mentality argument. I believe that in every individual there is a basic need (much like food, water and sex) to throw chairs. However, in polite society, one should not throw chairs unless first asked. The crowd was just following the guiding principles set forth in Mrs. McFlannigan's Guide to Etiquete Concerning the Throwing of Chairs in Polite Society as well as the Asking of One's Neighbors Permission Before Establishing a House of Sheep Prostitution in One's Own Home. It's of course on Amazon.com, and can be found in almost any local children's library.
Dave